Beast Wars: The Eastern Conference Finals Preview

The East teams are proof that the playoffs are way different compared to the regular season. Most importantly, this will be the time that teams have to prove something. It will be their opportunity to make a statement and show the world that they are strong and worthy to grab the trophy. With impressive playoff performances, both the guys of the Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic are out to exactly instill respect and fear among their opponents. But the Question: who will emerge victorious?


ORLANDO MAGIC (2)

The Magic In: Four and four was what Dwight Howard and his team have delivered into the playoffs so far. After crushing Gerald Wallace and the Charlotte Bobcats, they put to shame the Atlanta Hawks through tough defense. The backcourt combination of Jameer Nelson and Vince Carter froze Joe Johnson and Jamal Crawford, the two top scorers of the Hawks, while Howard and Rashard Lewis took care of Josh Smith and Al Horford. But the Magic is not just about defense; it's about efficient inside and outside scoring as well. The Superman has always been a man of the paint, while Lewis and Carter can provide the treys given the opportunities. Making their shots would then entail a big win for them.

Still, the challenge remains. Can they go for another four wins, now that their opponent is not like the Bobcats and the Hawks? Everyone knows that this stronger Magic team would like to put it even against the Lakers, or possibly own Steve Nash's team. Whether they would battle the Lakers or the Magic, they still have to get past the Boston Celtics to actually be able to battle.

BOSTON CELTICS (3)

The Celtics In: Perhaps Bston's owning of the Cavaliers in six games would soon become a major turning point in the history of the NBA of this decade. The winning trio of Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce, was able to defeat LeBron James and Shaquille O'Neal's squad, who was able to grab the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Those six games became possible also through the help of the supporting cast, which includes Kendrick Perkins, Glen Davis, Rasheed Wallace, and the significant Rajon Rondo, who delivered his best and got a triple-double during their game four win.

But certainly, Orlando is no Cleveland. While LeBron James was the only problem with the Cavaliers, the greens have to deal not only with Howard, but their excellent teamplay and playmaking. Add to that the nagging need to be consistent despite injuries and age wearing them down. Could they get up and do their best to get another four wins, prepared for any contingent plans just in case this series stretches?

What Could Be: As age and energy becomes a problem for the Boston trio, the youth and finesse of Dwight Howard and Jameer Nelson will wear them down and could even beat them to a pulp. Magic in 7.